Great Grandma Lizzie'S Orange-Sponge Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 45 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A light and moist orange sponge cake with a bright citrus flavor, perfect for brunch, teatime, or special occasions, appealing to citrus lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

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Ingredients

  • 4 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 3 1/2 cups self-rising flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated orange rind

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
  3. Pour the batter into a greased and floured tube pan.
  4. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter cake, separate the eggs and beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form before folding them into the batter. You can substitute half of the orange juice with a lemon or grapefruit juice for a different flavor profile. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. If self-rising flour isn't available, combine all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt instead.

Serving Suggestions

This Orange-Sponge Cake is delightful on its own or served with a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with Orange Fluff Fruit Dip for a refreshing twist. Consider serving it alongside a light fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. A dusting of powdered sugar can add an elegant touch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate, where it will last for up to a week. To reheat, slice the cake and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Great Grandma Lizzie'S Orange-Sponge Cake contains roughly 325 calories, with 9g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

325 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.5g 17% DV
Total Fat 1.4g 2% DV
Carbs 69.3g 25% DV
Fiber 3.2g 11% DV
Sugar 0.2g

Electrolytes

Sodium 272mg 12% DV
Potassium 204.1mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 25.8mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.3mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 11.1mg 12% DV
Calcium 128.7mg 10% DV
Iron 3.8mg 21% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour. For every cup of all-purpose flour, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to achieve a similar leavening effect. This will help maintain the cake's light texture.

How can I make this cake more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a bit more grated orange rind. You can also incorporate a splash of orange liqueur for an adult twist. Experimenting with these additions can elevate the cake's overall taste.

What can I do if my cake doesn't rise well?

If your cake doesn't rise, it may be due to expired baking powder or overmixing the batter. Always check the freshness of your leavening agents before baking. Mix just until combined to maintain the cake's airy texture. If the problem persists, consider adjusting your oven temperature.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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